When parents and students hear “rigorous education,” they may picture stressed-out teens buried under impossible workloads. But at IVA High, rigor means something entirely different. Let’s clear up some common misconceptions about what a truly rigorous education looks like and how your teen can thrive in our small high school. 

Myth #1: Rigorous Education = Mountains of Homework

The Truth: While our students do work hard, rigor isn’t about drowning in busywork. It’s about the quality of our accredited and transformational program and teaching excellence. Our faculty co-create engaging, hands-on lessons with students that explore real-world problems. Whether students are tackling engineering challenges or bringing literature to life, they’re developing critical thinking skills through meaningful work.

Myth #2: Rigorous Education is Only for the Most Advanced Students

The Truth: Every student can thrive in a rigorous learning environment with the right support. That’s why we maintain small class sizes and provide personalized attention through learning specialists and dedicated counselors. Our high graduation and parent satisfaction rates prove that when you combine high standards with unwavering support all students can excel.

Myth #3: Rigorous Education Requires Private School Tuition

The Truth: Our highly regarded education is 100% tuition-free. As a charter school, we offer the same high level courses, college preparation, and exceptional outcomes as elite private schools. Our students earn college credits, participate in internships, and gain acceptance to top universities—all without the financial burden.

Don’t let the word “rigor” intimidate you. At IVA High, rigorous education means deep subject mastery, real-world application, and developing the critical thinking skills needed for college, career and life. 

About IVA High

IVA High is a fully accredited, tuition-free public high school in Long Beach, California with a mission to empower students to think well: creatively, critically, and with a capacity for self-growth. Our learner-centered approach puts students in charge of their education, while dual enrollment and paid internships transform learning into action. Students come for college prep, STEAM and exploratory pathways for their future; they stay for smaller, safer learning in a vibrant, caring community. Get to know us on social media @ivahigh and on the web at www.ivahigh.org 10 Years of Curious Minds, Empowered Community – Join Us!